B2adjective2K

Artificial

UK /["/ˌɑːtɪˈfɪʃl/"]/US /["/ˌɑːrtɪˈfɪʃl/"]/

Definition

made or produced to copy something natural; not real

In simple words: Made by people, not natural.

Examples

  • The company developed an artificial intelligence system that can learn from vast amounts of data.
  • Many manufacturers use artificial materials in their products to reduce costs.
  • She prefers to use artificial sweeteners instead of sugar in her drinks.
  • The park features an artificial lake created for recreational activities.
  • Some critics argue that artificial flavors can never replace the taste of natural ingredients.
  • The muscles looked impressive, but they were clearly artificial, made from silicone.
  • The artist used artificial lighting to enhance the colors in the painting.
  • In virtual reality games, the graphics and sounds are designed to create an artificial environment.

Usage notes

Commonly used to describe things that are not genuine or real, like artificial flavors or intelligence. Avoid using in contexts where something natural is being discussed positively.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'artificial' like 'artifice' — it's not the real deal.

Collocations

  • be
  • look
  • seem
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • be
  • look
  • seem
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • be
  • look
  • seem
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very

Synonyms

  • fake

Antonyms

  • natural
  • genuine
  • real

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'artifice', which means clever trickery.
  • Using 'artificial' when referring to something authentic.
  • Incorrectly applying it to living beings that are alive.